Loch Ness Marathon spots ‘on course to sell out’
Runners hoping to take part in a world-famous Highland marathon are being urged to register swiftly as entries are “on track to sell out”.
Organisers of the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running have issued the warning for runners to “act fast” or risk missing out.
This year’s race, the 23rd, will take place on Sunday, September 28 along a picture postcard route that starts in the hills above the south side of Loch Ness and ultimately winds its way to the finish in Inverness
But the marathon is not the only part of the festival of running. The weekend kicks off on Saturday, September 27 with the return of the popular Runners Café and Sports Expo - hosted by BBC’s Bryan Burnett and open for free to all visitors.
The main race day follows on the Sunday with a range of distances to suit all ages and abilities - from the full marathon to the River Ness 10k, 5k, and the adorable Wee Nessie kids’ race.
As well as the main race, which is regularly voted one of the most scenic marathons in the world, other running options include the Baxters River Ness 10k, which will be perfect for seasoned runners or those chasing a fast time. It features a flat, picturesque course through Inverness and along the River Ness. There’s also the Corporate Challenge, where teams of four to six can come together to compete in a fun and inspiring environment.
For those looking for a shorter distance, the Baxters River Ness 5k provides a scenic, accessible route suitable for all ages and abilities. And for the littlest runners, the ever-popular Wee Nessie event invites children aged five and under to join the fun on a short, safe loop within Bught Park.
Once general entry places are sold out for the marathon, those still keen to take part can secure a spot by applying for a charity place with one of the event’s official charity partners. Running for a cause not only adds extra motivation on race day but also helps support vital work across the UK and beyond. This year’s charity partners include Macmillan Cancer Support, Alzheimer Scotland, Cancer Research UK, Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Highland Hospice, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and Parkinson’s UK , among others - giving runners the chance to make every mile count.
Malcolm Sutherland, CEO of Caledonian Concepts, organisers of the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon commented: “We’re thrilled to see such strong demand for this year’s event, with entries already flying in from around the world.
“The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon is truly a bucket list experience - not just for the incredible scenery, but for the energy, support, and spirit of the entire weekend. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or taking on your first 5K, there's something magical about running in the Highlands.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Inverness this September.”
In 2024, the event welcomed more than 10,000 runners from more than 45 countries - and this year’s entries are already on pace to surpass expectations.
You can register now at www.lochnessmarathon.com.
